One question we get all the time is, “Am I doing the right core exercises?”

It’s a great question with a straightforward answer.

Consider working to strengthen all four motions of the core when exercising specifically for health goals.

  1. “Forward” – This is also known as trunk flexion.  The motion looks like you are going into and out of a slouchy spine position.  An example of this would be a crunch exercise.
  2. “Back” –  This is also known as trunk extension.  The motion looks like you are going into and out of an arched spine.  An example of this would be a “superman” exercise.
  3. “Side to Side” –  This is also known as trunk side bend.  The motion looks like you are going into and out of a side bend.  An example of this is a standing side bend with a weight or dumbbell.
  4. “Rotation” – This is also known as trunk rotation.  The motion looks like a twist in the core area.  An example of this is a standing twist with a band or cable.

Exercise For Life is about using exercise to live the life you want.  Keep these tips in mind when building your core strength.

Julie

Categories: Julie Cates

Julie Cates

Julie Cates is an experienced, certified, and insured National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Certified Personal Trainer and mastery level Muscle Activation Techniques® (MAT®) Rx Specialist (MATRx). She is one of 88 certified mastery level Resistance Training Specialists® (RTSm) in the world. This combination makes her style of training impactful and still preventative and restorative of joint and muscle issues and pain that are common with exercise. Julie specializes working with women 50 and over. Specifically, her main focus is working with women with bone density loss, muscle loss, Osteopenia, and Osteoporosis. Julie has incredible experience working with brand new exercisers. Very specific types and styles of exercises are needed for restoring and maintaining bone density, and Julie guides her clients through these in a pain-free way. She is also well experienced in helping women exercise even with various joint, bone, systemic, and neurological diagnoses. Julie is definitely your go-to personal trainer for women with Osteoporosis! Julie graduated cum laude from the University of Florida. She earned her degree in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology with a specialization in Exercise Physiology. Julie is the co-owner of Muscle Activation Schaumburg in Schaumburg, IL. She is a wife and mother of two. Julie can be reached via e-mail at julie@matschaumburg.com. Follow her on Instagram at @julcates!